                                                                2018  John (Jay) Hicks

 John (Jay) Hicks, of Lewisburg was nominated for over 25 years of service to the West Virginia hunter Education program with over 650 hours of instruction working as a team leader in Greenbrier County. Jay started his instructor career in Pocahontas County, also teaching in a total of 4 counties, certifying thousands of students. Jay worked as a volunteer instructor up until his passing in December of 2015. Jay was recognized by the WVDNR and the WVHEA as District IV Instructor of the Year in 2014. Jay had the support of his wife, Jane, who would help him load his vehicle before classes. His knowledge of the Hunter Ed program was second to none. Jay’s knowledge of muzzleloaders led him to specialize in the section on black powder and muzzleloaders for his experience in building and competing with them. Being an avid sportsman, he really enjoyed sharing and passing-on to others his passion for the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He was a member of the local Muzzleloader Association. Also, he was a Life member of the NRA. He was a friend to many, mentor to new and young hunters; and father of four sons that he passed-along his knowledge of hunting and fishing.
· Served United States Army 1963-66· Boy Scouts leader for 2 different Troops· Helped w/Boy Scout Camps and Church Camps· United Methodist Pastor 1989-Retired 2004· Member United Methodist Men· Worked for Pocahontas County Food Pantry· Summers County Hospital Chaplin· Member Masonic Lodge #42 since1976· Charter member of Clintonville Vol. Fire Dept. – Chaplin since 2004· Fireman of the Year 1980· Life member North American Hunting /Fishing Clubs· Member of the Kate Carpenter Muzzleloader Club - helped build range· Owned and Operated Hick’s Gun Shop – Building muzzleloaders· Certified Gunsmith